Football: Arsenal sign 'record' kit deal with Puma

The Puma headquarters in Herzogenaurach near Nuremberg. Arsenal announced on Monday, Jan 27, 2014, the most lucrative kit deal in their history, in a tie-up with Puma worth more than a reported 30 million pounds (S$63.5 million) a year to the Premier League leaders. -- FILE PHOTO: REUTERS

LONDON (AFP) - Arsenal announced on Monday, Jan 27, 2014, the most lucrative kit deal in their history, in a tie-up with Puma worth more than a reported 30 million pounds (S$63.5 million) a year to the Premier League leaders.

The agreement, which will see the German sports manufacturer take over from Nike as Arsenal's official kit suppliers from July 2014, was described in a joint statement as "the biggest deal in Puma and Arsenal's history".

The Gunners are understood to receive around 30 million pounds a year from main sponsors Emirates Airlines, and while no financial details were given, reports have indicated the new deal will be for a similar amount when Puma replace US-based rivals Nike, who have been the London club's kit provider since 1994.

"We are excited to be partnering with Puma, a company whose football heritage and record of innovation have a strong affinity with our own," said Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis.